The Kent State Men's Basketball team (9-9) was defeated by Akron in a sold-out M.A.C. Center. The Flashes are now 2-4 in the MAC going into next Tuesday's game.

The Flashes will be back on the road to play Bowling Green on Tuesday, Jan. 23. Tip-off time is scheduled for 7 p.m. and will be available on ESPN+. 

Both teams came out aggressive and fast with a quick three from Mike Bekelja the Flashes were on the board. Unfortunately, with a 12-0 run from the Zips, Akron began pulling away. The Zips responded to Bekelja's shot with a jumper by Ali Ali and a dunk from Sammy Hunter. The first half was Akron's accompanied by outstanding performances from Enrique Freeman and Ali Ali who rounded out their nights with 23 points each. Ali Ali helped the Zips gain control of the first half recording 16 points. The Flashes struggled offensively in the first 20 minutes only shooting 26.1 percent from the field and 16.7 percent from the three.  

Going into the second half, the Flashes began gaining back their momentum with free throws from VonCameron Davis and another three-pointer from Bekelja. After causing multiple turnovers and being strong on the glass Kent State started cutting down Akron's lead. Due to key points from the ark by Tyem Freeman and a thrilling dunk from Chris Payton Jr., the score was now 69-72. With the Flashes hot on Akron's heels and just under two minutes to go, the Flashes were down five. Freeman came off the bench in the second half recording four threes and ending the night with 14 points. Giovanni Santiago led the Flashes with 16 points.  As the time was winding down, Kent State fouled twice with hopes of regaining possession, but with made free throws from the Zips the Flashes fell short of a victory.